I found this vase in a local antique dealers shop hidden down the bottom of a rack. I knew immediately what it was and snapped it up quick smart. The vase features the arms of Catherine the Second also known as Catherine the Great of Russia who reigned in the Russia during the mid 18th century. The orb and sceptre have been transposed which was an amonoly not to uncommon with Chinese armorial porcelain. The wave border around the base was only ever used on pieces with an imperial connection such as a connection the Romanov Tsars, which this piece has. The base is marked with 1851 which is more than likely the 1851 exhibition held in England at Crystal Palace or it could possibly be from the Gatchina Palace which was Catherine the Greats Summer home. A truly gorgeous and rare piece and there are some other examples known to exist which have obviously come from the same set or service. I just love the world of antiques and the hidden treasures people throw away. This beauty measures around 50 cm high and is in perfect condition - ENJOY

Comments

Thanks yet again for your kind words of support. We have been very fortunate to find these pieces from a passion for antiques that began with me collecting almost everything that had a MARK on the base which used to drive my wife NUTS! We have turned this passion into more than just a collectors obsession but I have a very good memory and when your combine this with a love for what you do, this is what you can find. Once again, thank you!

Dean

inky, 6 years agoHi Dean!.. I very much have the passion and am now with the help of this site finding I am getting the knowledge little by little, I have always loved 'old stuff' and have an eclectic range of some beautiful items, most of everything I have has been found in op-shops, second hand shops, garage sales and if not too much to take the chance with our local auction site....:-)